Not only are caregivers responsible for disciplining children, this must include a good diet as a key component of healthy living. Study upon study points to the fact that most of our overweight children are indulging in food choices that hinder a healthy body weight.

Not only does poor diet limit their opportunities to live an active life, but it also encourages the early onset of eating disorders and life-threatening diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

There are some key things that parents can do to not only keep off the excess weight but replace the junk food and caloric intake that children are consuming in their diet. These behavioural changes and food alternatives will ensure that children stay active and healthy.

Don't skip meals. Eating a low-fat breakfast makes children feel energized and more alert and active throughout the day.

Make water and milk the choice for fluids. Sodas are not only high in sugar and calories, but offer a false stimulant that causes kids to feel horrible once they have worn off. Juice boxes may seem like an easy grab-and-go item, but they are often high in unhealthy sugars.

Snacking on healthy food alternatives is an easy transition from meal to meal and discourages binge eating during main meals.

Freeze the fruits. Not only is this a new way to get more fruits in your diet, but kids like the idea of eating food they are familiar with but in a different form.